"They say a third aircraft carrier from the U S is now headed empty in that direction to be used as a landing base when Israeli runways get bomb cratered."

US Warships never travel anywhere "empty". I have no idea of who "they" are but they can't count either in addition to knowing nothing about naval regulations.

My understanding, as told from a navy man, that only naval and marine pilots are allowed to land on carriers, if that’s not correct please let me know.

I would guess it's full of defensive and offensive missiles.

Keith

Unless the weather is exceptionally bad, there are planes in the air nearly 24/7. CAP, choppers doing plane guard and sub patrol, and tankers. Then there are daily flights for training. There's always ammo at the ready stations as well. US Navy ships just don't travel unarmed and "empty".

An empty flat top has another name, target.

The only time a US flat top is without planes embarked is when parked at it's home port.